This contemporary ski chalet was designed by AKB Architects, located on a cul-de-sac in a private ski club development in Collingwood, Ontario, Canada. Created as a barn-like structure, this chalet serves as a vacation residence for an active family of six who like to entertain. The home encompasses 4,650 square feet of living space spread out over two levels, featuring a generous double height kitchen, dining and living room facing the ski hill. This open concept great room serves as the family’s central gathering space offering extensive views and abundant natural light.

Sitting comfortably within it’s landscape, the form of the exterior facade was inspired by the surrounding barns. Although the exterior fit comfortably within its context, the interiors are completely different from the standards of chalets. The homeowners requested voluminous ceilings that would make the living spaces feel bright and airy.

Above: One of the challenging architectural details of this home was it’s extensive exterior copper work.

Above: The large cantilevered limestone fireplace serves as a focal point to the great room. It also creates a delineation of social areas between the living and dining rooms. The fireplace was one of several architectural details that presented a challenge when designing this home.

What We Love: This contemporary ski chalet features voluminous ceilings with no beams or walls interrupting the open living space. This vacation retreat is a beautiful blend of traditional architecture in its form with contemporary architecture in its interior. With a multitude of windows, the feeling on the interiors is bright and airy, framing the beautiful Canadian landscape.

Readers, please share with us what architectural details in this apline home inspire you in the comments below.

Above: On the weekends, the homeowner invites family and friends and cooks for twenty people in the sleek, industrial kitchen.

MORE INSPIRATION

The master suite is also located on the ground floor with children’s bedrooms and bathrooms on the second floor mezzanine above.

The basement incorporates a large recreation room, guest bedroom with en-suite and a spa zone consisting of sauna, steam shower, powder room and change area with direct access to a hot tub deck.